Area Students Putting On The Ritz For Prom Night

It's that time of year again when young people's thoughts turn to less serious things than their studies, and formal wear shops put their frilliest, dressiest best in the windows.

Prom season conjures up both pleasant and not-so-pleasant memories for everyone. The young men and women involved hope their new outfits fit perfectly, and that they don't say anything stupid. Parents and school administrators hope the students don't get caught up in prom-night revelry and act irresponsibly.

To help discourage reckless behavior, a few area schools are talking to students before the event, warning against the dangers of drinking, drugs and driving. Some have put up posters or displays. Several schools attempted to organize post-prom parties to discourage students from possible trouble, but none were successful in their attempts this year.

"It has to be done by the community and parents. There were not enough interested to make it happen this year," said Mary Sue Rawls, peer sponsor at Windsor High School.

She said planning and executing a night of activities takes community support because of the size of the effort.

To help parents keep track of the upcoming festivities, here is a list of area high school proms.

John F. Kennedy High School and Isle of Wight Academy, both April 27 at 8 p.m. at their respective schools.

Windsor High School, May 5 at 8 p.m. at EJ's Landing in Franklin

Forest Glen High School, May 11 at 8 p.m. at the school

Surry High School, May 18 at 8 p.m. at the school.

Suffolk High School, May 18 at 8 p.m. at the Birdsong Recreation Center across the street.

John Yeates High School and Nansemond-Suffolk Academy, both May 25 at 8 p.m. at their respective schools.